Blackmagic Design's three new Mini Converters, which were added to its Mini Converter family at NAB 2009, are now shipping from authorized Blackmagic Design resellers worldwide: Mini Converter SDI to Audio, Mini Converter Audio to SDI, and Mini Converter Optical Fiber. All Mini Converters will be at IBC on the Blackmagic Design Stand Number 7.B21.

Mini Converter SDI to Audio de-embeds audio from the SDI input out to either 4 channels of balanced analog audio or 8 channels of AES/EBU digital audio. Audio can be switched between analog and digital audio. SDI input video features a loop-thru output for connection to other SDI devices.

Mini Converter Audio to SDI allows embedding of audio into SDI video connections. SDI loops though, and 4 channels of balanced analog audio or 8 channels of AES/EBU digital audio can be embedded. Any audio channel can be selected, and enabled or disabled. Full sample rate converters are included on each AES/EBU audio input. Both converters feature redundant SDI connections meaning that if one SDI connection is interrupted, the redundant connection activates immediately. Loop through SDI allows video daisy chaining with multiple devices for additional audio channels.

Mini Converter Optical Fiber converts bi-directionally between SDI and Optical Fiber cable. It auto switches between SD, HD and 3 Gb/s SDI. Optical Fiber provides numerous advantages with its low cost, its ability to be installed by electricians, and its extremely long cable lengths without compromising transmission speed. Using standard LC connectors, cable runs of 25 km (82,000 feet) can be achieved in HD and 45 km (147,000 feet) in SD. Previously only available to the largest broadcasters or largest facilities, the use of optical fiber opens the possibility of longer, faster and less expensive cabling options to smaller operations.

These three new Mini Converters join the Mini Converter family including five models: SDI to Analog, Analog to SDI, SDI to HDMI and HDMI to SDI, also USD$495, plus a Sync Generator model at USD$295. All Mini Converter models include powerful features such as redundant SDI inputs, balanced analog and AES/EBU switchable audio, standard ¼-inch jack audio connections and an international power supply which includes adapter plates for all international power sockets. Blackmagic Design Mini Converters are designed to be extremely powerful while also easy to use.

All new Mini Converters are now shipping and available for USD $495 and the Sync Generator is available for USD$295. For further information, please visit www.blackmagic-design.com.